Donkey Kong 64 finally joins the Nintendo Switch Online N64 library next month

Rare’s classic 3D platformer Donkey Kong 64 will officially join the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack library on June 4. With its arrival, the total number of Nintendo 64 games available through the service will increase to 43 in Western regions and 45 worldwide, including Japan-exclusive titles.

Originally released in November 1999, Donkey Kong 64 became one of Rare’s most ambitious platformers, using technology similar to the Banjo-Kazooie series. The game follows Donkey Kong as he rescues his captured friends from King K. Rool, with each rescued character becoming playable throughout the adventure.

The title is widely remembered for its massive number of collectibles, expansive levels, and the debut of the now-iconic “DK Rap,” composed by Grant Kirkhope, which became a cult favorite among fans over the years.

While Donkey Kong 64 skipped the Wii Virtual Console era, it later arrived on Wii U in 2015. Because of the Wii U’s limited install base, many Nintendo Switch players will now get their first legal opportunity to experience the game since its original Nintendo 64 release decades ago.

Fans have long speculated about the game joining Nintendo Switch Online, especially after a Nintendo Switch Online trailer last year appeared to tease its box art in a blurred background image. The same image also seemingly hinted at titles like Forsaken 64, Glover, and Super Smash Bros. While Forsaken 64 later arrived on the service, the other games have yet to appear.

Donkey Kong 64 also becomes the first Nintendo 64 title added to the service in 2026. Last year, Nintendo expanded the library with games including Ridge Racer 64, Killer Instinct Gold, Rayman 2: The Great Escape, Forsaken 64, and Tonic Trouble.

Nintendo Switch Online subscribers can access NES, SNES, Game Boy, and Game Boy Color titles through the standard membership, while Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis games remain exclusive to the more expensive Expansion Pack tier.